Introduction

As the MLB offseason progresses into its winter months, fans might be feeling anxious about their teams' relative inactivity. Contrary to the usual frenzy surrounding free agency, some teams seem to be moving at a snail's pace. However, it's crucial to remember that the offseason doesn't come to a halt with the arrival of spring training in February; it can extend up until Opening Day. This article delves into eight teams whose lack of significant activity may be pushing their fanbases to the brink of anxiety.

1. Milwaukee Brewers: A Cautious Approach

With a remarkable record of 97-65 and winning the NL Central four out of the last five years, the Milwaukee Brewers have earned the benefit of the doubt. Yet, their offseason took a surprising turn when they extended a qualifying offer to pitcher Brandon Woodruff, who accepted it at $22.025 million, potentially limiting their spending before the 2026 season. Although they have previously assumed an aggressive strategy to build a postseason contender, lingering questions remain: Is sticking to their current roster the right approach? More importantly, can they construct a team that can rival heavyweights such as the Los Angeles Dodgers come October?

Seeking Solutions

The Brewers may need to consider trading away Freddy Peralta to free up some maneuverability. Alternatively, they could focus on acquiring a power bat to bolster their offense, with free-agent options like Eugenio Suárez or trade targets such as Ketel Marte being appealing prospects.

2. Cleveland Guardians: A Cautious Yet Calm Offseason

The Cleveland Guardians, fresh off an 88-74 season and another AL Central title, have managed to keep a relatively low profile this offseason. With only $11.9 million spent on free agents so far, the lack of urgency is palpable. They need to address the outfield gaps after last season’s mediocre stretch. With an estimated additional $23 million to spend before exceeding 2025’s payroll, questions arise: Why the hesitance?

Opportunities for Improvement

The Guardians are reportedly in the market for a right-handed outfielder, with players like Harrison Bader, Austin Hays, and Miguel Andujar on their radar. Adding a righty slugger like Eugenio Suárez could also serve as a dual-purpose player, contributing at DH and first base.

3. Detroit Tigers: Balancing Expectations

Coming off a season with a record of 87-75, the Detroit Tigers have raised eyebrows with their approach to Tarik Skubal's potential trade. Despite retaining certain players and making modest additions like Kenley Jansen, the Tigers appear stagnant. There’s a consensus that simply holding onto Skubal may not be enough to push them forward.

Finding Direction

For the Tigers to genuinely improve, they must publicly commit to Skubal's future and pursue a significant player acquisition. Whether that be Alex Bregman at third base or a co-ace like Framber Valdez, they need to take decisive action to further their ambitions.

4. San Diego Padres: Riding the Line of Survival

Despite some positive moves this offseason, the Padres have watched key players depart, creating an uncomfortable uncertainty as they navigate a competitive landscape. Retaining Michael King is a bright spot, but the departures of Dylan Cease and others might leave them in a worse position than last season.

Steps Toward Redemption

The Padres must find answers in the market, potentially targeting at least one starting pitcher and bat. Creative trades, especially involving players like Jake Cronenworth or a bold approach with an eye on acquiring Kazuma Okamoto, could make a significant difference.

5. Chicago Cubs: Filling Key Gaps

The Chicago Cubs have seen an active offseason with the retention of Shota Imanaga and notable acquisitions, yet concerns persist. They need an impactful bat after the absence of Kyle Tucker leaves a hole in the lineup, which is doubly surprising given the Cubs' financial capabilities.

Making the Right Moves

For the Cubs to maximize their potential, re-signing Tucker would be ideal, but if that seems unlikely, targeting Alex Bregman or Bo Bichette could help alleviate their offensive woes.

6. Boston Red Sox: A Fine Balance

The Red Sox, with a record of 89-73, have had some success this offseason by acquiring key players through trades. However, the uncertainty surrounding Alex Bregman's future starkly contrasts the acquisitions made, creating a palpable sense of urgency for Boston to maximize their efforts in a tough AL East.

Future Considerations

The primary goal for the Red Sox should be to retain Bregman, with ample financial backing to do so, or consider trades for players like Ketel Marte should that fail.

7. New York Mets: A Shaky Transition

The New York Mets have made some moves this offseason, yet questions linger about whether these transactions genuinely strengthen the team. Following the departure of essential players, their efforts to cut payroll have raised eyebrows, especially from a team with the league's wealthiest owner.

Reassessing Needs

Adding star pitchers like Framber Valdez or exploring trades for top starters could represent a critical avenue for improvement for the Mets.

8. New York Yankees: Feeling the Pressure

The Yankees' offseason has been lackluster, especially with recent decisions that raised concerns among fans. Having done very little since extending a qualifying offer to Trent Grisham, their focus on controlling payroll seems misplaced given their status as a financially dominating franchise.

Final Prospects

For the Yankees, the pressing need remains to secure Cody Bellinger or a player of his caliber. As they wrestle with missed opportunities, they'll have to be proactive in their pursuit of pitching help and power bats.

Conclusion

As we approach the start of the MLB season, the spotlight intensifies on these eight teams. Each faces unique challenges and pressures stemming from their offseason decisions—or lack thereof. Whether through trade, strategic spending, or player retention, these franchises must act decisively to transform into playoff contenders as they prepare for the 2026 season.